Challah Recipe #2 - Loaf Style

Step 1: In a large mixer bowl, place the flour, sugar and salt- mix well.

Step 2: In a small separate bowl, mix the yeast with 1/2 cup lukewarm water and a pinch sugar- let this sit for 15 minutes.

Step 3: In the large mixer bowl, make a well in the middle of the flour mixture and pour the yeast mixture in - let sit for 15 minutes, covered.

Step 4: Mix in 5 egg yolks, shortening, water, honey - knead with dough hook until very smooth and elastic- add a bit of water or flour if needed- the dough should be very soft and slightly sticky - dont overknead however.

Step 5: Let rise in the bowl, covered with plastic wrap, for about 2 hours or until very light and full of bubbles.

Step 6: Fold down and remove from the bowl- place onto a floured work surface.

Step 7: Preheat the oven to 350F.

Step 8: Divide into 3 portions. Each portion should be divided into 3 pieces and each piece should be rolled a bit longer than the loaf pan. Braid each loaf and place into a well greased pan. Use the 6th beaten egg yolk to brush the tops. Cover with non-stick sprayed plastic wrap and let rise for approx 30 minutes.

Step 9: Bake until the inside of the loaf reaches 195F, approx 25-45 minutes - cover the tops with foil if they are browning too much.

Step 10: Remove from oven and let the loaves sit 5 minutes in the pan the invert the loaves onto cooling rack.